• 대한세포병리학회지
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• 제12권2호
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• pp.131-134
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• 2001

Cytologic features of conventional chordoma have been described and most reports emphasize the presence of large cells with numerous well defined cytoplasmic vacuoles or physaliferous cells. We report fine needle aspiration cytologlc (FNAC) findings of a case of chordoma without physaliferous cells. The smear was cellular and composed of large cohesive clusters or individually scattered cells in mucinous background. The round or cuboidal cells had centrally located nuclei with fine granular chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli, and occasional vacuolated cytoplasm. Mild to moderate pleomorphism was noted. Physaliferous cells are extremely helpful when present in cytologic material, but they are not necessary for diagnosis. Thus clinical history, roentgenographic appearance, and exact location of the lesion are required for the successful Interpretation of presacral aspirates together with cytologic findings.

• 대한세포병리학회지
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• 제15권1호
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• pp.45-51
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• 2004

It is important to recognize the pathognomonic cytologic findings of chordoma, because of overlapping cytologic features between chordoma, chondrshdosarcoma, myxofilbrillary ependymoma, and metastatic adenocarcinoma. We reviewed the cytomorphologic features of 5 cases of chordoma diagnosed by fine needle aspiration cytology at Korean Cancer Center Hospital from 1987 to 2003. Clinical and radiographic findings of each case were reviewed. Four males and one female (29-54 years) had tumors involving the sacrum. Pain was the presenting symptom in 4 cases. The three cases showed moderate to high cellularity. In all cases, typical physaliferous cells with or without cytoplasmic processes were noted. In two cases, the background was myxoid with single scattered cells. Cell clusters showing cord-like arrangement were occasionally seen. The single or clustered cells showed mild cellular pleomorphism with slightly increased nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio. Mitotic figures were not seen. In our review, the recognition of physaliferous cells is the most important feature to diagnose chordoma and to differentiate it from other lesions mimicking chordoma.